bloss

This is going way back in history, but it came into my thinking today.
I was married to my high school sweetheart for 20 years. We were soulmates for so many years. Along the way many bad things took a toll on our relationship. Two of them were alcoholic drinking and spousal violence. Finally, after much soul searching I left the relationship, basically with nothing. I started over, the drinking has been a consistent struggle for me all the intervening years, relapse, abstinence, over and over. It has been extremely difficult for me to remain sober long term, I am hoping and praying this time is it. The point is, I don't think I would have had a chance to become or remain sober while in the relationship with my first spouse. It was really hard to end it, as we had been together for so many years, we met in the 9th grade. Despite how difficult it was, I knew it had to happen. We were in a very hurtful, (dangerous, at the end) relationship. It could not be fixed. I now have the opportunity to stay sober, perhaps help someone else who is suffering. I am grateful.

Weasel1966

Did I write that or you?

I am very happy for you to be where you are. Sorry so much had to happen.

bloss

Sounds like either one of us could have written it. Its really hard to be hurt by the person you've loved and shared so much with.

Jeni26

Bloss, Thankyou for sharing that. Big hugs to you xxx

bloss

Jeni: thanks my friend, a big hug to you too

nel68

**{hugs bloss}}

bloss

Hi Nel, hope the New Year is going well for you, take care

Music

Thanks for sharing bloss. My wife and I met when I was 19 and she was 18. We dated for a little over a month. I was in the navy and had orders so we got married really fast. In our 15th year we both needed AA and have been sober since and are still married. We celebrated 50 years on the 29th of December. I know without a doubt that physical abuse would have been the deal breaker. I have never once layed a mean hand on her, nor have I ever called her anything other than by name, honey, or some other endearing title. I shutter to hear other men refer to their wives as bitch, or some other choice names I won't quote here. There was plenty of mental and emotional hurt on both sides but we've never gone to bed without telling each other "I love you". That was my dad's advice when I was a kid and the best advice he ever gave to me.

My prayers are with you in your recovery. You can make it if you want to.

nel68

Thanks bloss, so far its the best its been in the last 5 months, staying sober strong

bloss

Music:
50 years, that is so inspiring. I am so glad the two of you got through it together and have been sober all these years.
Bloss

Caledonia1

Oh bloss thank you so much for sharing your experience. It pains me to think how much I can relate to your experience.

I'm so glad I have you here to travel this journey together.

You're the best!

x

bloss

Nicky:
You sharing and support has really helped. Thanks sober buddy!
Bloss